Business Plan Competition

The Rotary Business Plan Competition encourages high school students to think creatively, develop entrepreneurial skills, and explore how business ideas can positively impact their communities. This vocational-service initiative supports innovation, leadership, and real-world problem solving — values that align closely with Rotary’s commitment to service above self.

Students are challenged to develop and present original business or social-impact ideas while gaining experience in research, teamwork, and professional presentation.

About the Competition

Students are challenged to develop and present original business or social-impact ideas while gaining experience in research, teamwork, and professional presentation.

Key Elements

Team Structure

Students may participate individually or in teams of up to four (4).
Teams may represent one or more high schools.

Written Business Plan

All entries must include a written plan outlining:
- The business or social-impact idea
- Target audience or market
- How the idea creates value or solves a problem

Oral Presentation

Finalists may be invited to present their plan in an oral pitch (up to 10 minutes).
Presentations may include slides, video, or other visual aids.
Events may be held in person or virtually, depending on the host club or district.

Community & Impact Focus

Students are encouraged to connect their idea to one or more of Rotary’s Seven Areas of Focus, showing how their proposal benefits the community, environment, or economy.

How Competition Levels Work

Club Level

Local Rotary clubs review written submissions.
Clubs may select finalists for oral presentations.
One team typically advances to the next level.

Regional Level

Club winners compete against other schools in their region.
Regional winners and runners-up may receive cash awards.

District Finals

Regional champions may advance to the District Competition.
Top district teams are recognized and awarded scholarships or prizes.

Note: Competition levels, dates, and awards vary by year and depend on district participation.

Awards & Recognition

When the competition is held, awards may include:

Club Level: Prizes determined by the hosting Rotary club
Regional Level: Cash awards for top teams
District Level: Larger scholarships and recognition at district events

Award amounts and participation are subject to change based on funding and involvement.

Mentorship & Support

Rotary clubs may offer mentorship to help students understand business planning and presentation skills. Mentors support learning and guidance but may not create content or judge the competition.

Business Plan Competition Application Form

School Name / Organization

Team Name

Team Members (names and grade levels)

Faculty Advisor or Teacher Contact

Brief summary of the business concept

Parent / Guardian Information

Include contact information for each student participant (or confirmation this is collected by the school)

Parent/Guardian Name

Phone

What problem does your business idea address?

How does your plan demonstrate innovation, leadership, or community impact?

What did your team learn through this process?

Business Plan Details

Share information about your business idea or venture:

Business Name

Type of Business / Industry

Brief Business Description

Submission Materials

Upload or link the materials needed to review your business plan:

Upload Business Plan Document (PDF preferred)

Link to Business Plan or Pitch Deck (optional)

Executive Summary (business concept, target market, revenue model, etc.,)

Optional Supporting Materials (financial projections, pitch video, market research, etc.)

Consent & Agreements

Before submitting, please confirm the following:

I give permission for Rotary to review my submission materials
(This allows judges and organizers to view and share for competition purposes.)

I agree to participate in club-level competition if selected
(By checking, you commit to perform at the event should you advance.)

I confirm that this work is original and created by the applicant or team

Submission & Deadlines

Complete and submit this application by your club’s deadline.
Club competition winners will be forwarded to regional and district rounds by Rotary event chairs.
For questions or help with submission, contact your local Rotary Club Committee.

Privacy Statement

The Rotary Club of Apple Valley values your privacy. Information submitted through this scholarship application is used only for scholarship review, selection, and administration. Access to applications is limited to authorized Rotary Club of Apple Valley members and volunteers involved in the scholarship process. Your information will not be sold, shared, rented, or redistributed to third parties and will not be used for marketing, fundraising, or mailing lists. All submissions are handled responsibly and retained only as long as necessary to administer the scholarship program and meet Rotary record-keeping requirements. By submitting this application, you consent to the use of your information solely for these purposes.